Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe: Comfort Food at Its Finest
There’s something magical about the combination of potatoes and cheese. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, or the perfect sidekick to your Sunday roast. Today, I’m sharing my go-to Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe—a dish that’s creamy, indulgent, and ridiculously easy to make. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe is a winner.
Let’s dive in, shall we?
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we get started, let’s gather our ingredients. Trust me, you’ll want to have everything ready to go—this recipe comes together quickly!
- 4 cups of peeled and diced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work best)
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (go for sharp cheddar if you want that extra punch of flavor)
- 1 cup of sour cream (full-fat for maximum creaminess, but you can use light if you prefer)
- 1/2 cup of milk (whole milk is ideal, but any kind will do)
- 1/4 cup of unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder (because everything’s better with garlic)
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder (for that subtle savory note)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy—seasoning is key!)
- 1 cup of crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs (for that golden, crunchy topping)
- 2 tablespoons of melted butter (to mix with the topping)
Pro Tip: If you’re feeling adventurous, add a handful of crispy bacon bits or a sprinkle of green onions for an extra layer of flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Potatoes
Start by peeling and dicing your potatoes into bite-sized pieces. You want them to cook evenly, so try to keep the pieces roughly the same size.
Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, you can use frozen diced potatoes. Just thaw them first and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
Boil the diced potatoes in a large pot of salted water until they’re just tender—about 10-12 minutes. You don’t want them to turn to mush, so keep an eye on them. Once they’re done, drain them well and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cheesy Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, milk, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed. Then, fold in the shredded cheddar cheese.
Pro Tip: For an extra creamy sauce, let the mixture sit for a few minutes so the cheese starts to melt into the other ingredients.
Step 4: Combine Potatoes and Sauce
Add the cooked potatoes to the cheesy sauce and gently stir until the potatoes are evenly coated. Be careful not to overmix—you want to keep those potato pieces intact.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the potato mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, then sprinkle the crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs over the top. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of melted butter over the topping for that perfect golden crunch.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
Pro Tip: If you’re a fan of extra crispy toppings, pop the casserole under the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
Serving Suggestions
This Cheesy Potato Casserole is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a side dish with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a holiday ham. It’s also hearty enough to stand on its own as a main course if you’re in the mood for a carb-loaded comfort meal.
Pair it with a simple green salad or steamed veggies to balance out the richness. And don’t forget a glass of your favorite wine or a cold beer—this dish deserves a proper toast.
Why This Recipe Works
What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. It’s made with everyday ingredients, but the result feels special. The creamy, cheesy interior paired with the crispy topping is a textural dream, and the flavors are comforting without being overwhelming.
Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or bringing a dish to a potluck, this casserole always disappears fast.
Final Thoughts
Cooking, for me, is about more than just feeding people—it’s about creating moments of joy. And this Cheesy Potato Casserole? It’s pure joy in every bite.
So, the next time you’re craving something warm, cheesy, and utterly satisfying, give this recipe a try. I promise, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen just like it has in mine.
